16748, Shinglehouse, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16748, Shinglehouse, Pennsylvania is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.62 percent of the residents in 16748 has some form of health insurance. 46.54 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.27 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 16748 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 579 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16748. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 592 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 161 health care providers accessible to residents in 16748, Shinglehouse, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Shinglehouse, PA (ZIP Code 16748)

Analyzing the landscape of healthcare within Shinglehouse, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16748), specifically concerning lung cancer care, presents a complex picture. This analysis considers factors crucial to patient outcomes, including physician availability, access to primary care, adoption of modern technologies, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a nuanced "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement within the local healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on early detection and prompt intervention. This, in turn, hinges on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Shinglehouse, primary care availability is a significant concern. The rural nature of the area, coupled with potential physician shortages, likely results in a less-than-ideal physician-to-patient ratio. This means residents may face longer wait times for appointments, limited access to preventative screenings, and potential delays in diagnosis. This scarcity directly impacts the "Lung Cancer Score," as delayed diagnosis dramatically reduces the chances of successful treatment.

Furthermore, the geographic isolation of Shinglehouse necessitates careful consideration of access to specialized care. While primary care providers may be present, the availability of pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons within the immediate vicinity is likely limited. Patients may need to travel considerable distances to receive specialized consultations, diagnostic procedures (such as CT scans and bronchoscopies), and treatment, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy. This travel burden adds to the stress of a cancer diagnosis and can negatively impact patient adherence to treatment plans. The "Lung Cancer Score" suffers due to these logistical challenges.

Telemedicine offers a potential solution to bridge the gap in specialized care. The adoption of telemedicine by local healthcare providers is a critical factor. Remote consultations with specialists, remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment, and virtual support groups can significantly improve access to care and patient outcomes. However, the effectiveness of telemedicine depends on several factors, including the availability of reliable internet access in the area, the willingness of both patients and providers to embrace the technology, and the integration of telemedicine platforms into existing healthcare workflows. The "Lung Cancer Score" benefits from robust telemedicine implementation.

Mental health support is another crucial component of comprehensive lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional and psychological well-being. Anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges are common. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential for helping patients cope with the emotional toll of the disease. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan, including screening for mental health issues and providing access to appropriate support, is a key indicator of quality care. The "Lung Cancer Score" reflects the availability and integration of mental health services.

Identifying standout practices within the Shinglehouse area is challenging given the limited information available. However, it is crucial to recognize practices that prioritize patient-centered care, offer comprehensive services, and demonstrate a commitment to early detection and treatment. These practices may be characterized by their proactive approach to screening, their willingness to embrace technology, and their dedication to providing patients with emotional support. While specific practices are difficult to pinpoint without more in-depth local knowledge, their existence would undoubtedly improve the "Lung Cancer Score."

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Shinglehouse, PA (ZIP code 16748) is likely negatively impacted by the rural nature of the area. The scarcity of primary care physicians, the potential for limited access to specialists, and the logistical challenges associated with accessing treatment all contribute to a lower score. The adoption of telemedicine and the integration of mental health resources are critical areas for improvement. The availability of reliable internet access and the willingness of providers and patients to embrace technology will be key determinants of success.

To improve the "Lung Cancer Score," the community needs to focus on several key areas. Recruiting and retaining primary care physicians is paramount. Expanding access to telemedicine services, including remote consultations with specialists and remote monitoring of patients, is essential. Integrating mental health services into the care plan, including screening for mental health issues and providing access to appropriate support, is also crucial. Furthermore, community outreach programs to raise awareness about lung cancer risk factors, symptoms, and screening options can play a vital role in early detection.

The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. Analyzing and understanding the complexities of healthcare access and quality requires sophisticated tools and up-to-date information. To gain a deeper understanding of healthcare resources in Shinglehouse and surrounding areas, including physician locations, primary care availability, and access to specialized services, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps provide a visual representation of healthcare data, allowing you to explore the local healthcare ecosystem in greater detail and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.